Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: In a light-hearted yet politically charged moment during a recent interview, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar once again displayed his quick wit when asked a tricky question. The query posed was whether he would prefer to have dinner with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un or Hungarian-American billionaire George Soros, both controversial figures for different reasons.
With a smile, Jaishankar quipped, “I think this is Navratri, I’m fasting,” prompting laughter from both the interviewer and the audience. The humorous response allowed him to deftly avoid taking sides or being drawn into any potential controversy.
Background on the Figures Involved
George Soros, known for his vocal criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and alleged involvement in funding activities deemed anti-India by the BJP, represents a contentious figure in Indian politics. On the other hand, Kim Jong Un, the authoritarian leader of North Korea, poses a different diplomatic challenge altogether.
Jaishankar’s witty reply not only helped him sidestep the potentially thorny issue but also showcased his ability to handle delicate topics with a humorous touch.
Jaishankar’s Signature Wit
This is not the first time Jaishankar’s sharp sense of humor has made headlines. In another instance, during a public event, when asked by a foreign journalist about the US being a “declining power,” Jaishankar’s immediate response was, “You don’t have to convince me about that,” which also went viral.
His lighthearted and measured approach was similarly visible when he was asked about his conduct during an upcoming visit to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. He humorously responded, “I’m a courteous and civil person, I will behave myself accordingly,” drawing applause from the crowd.